Awareness and knowledge of glaucoma among adult patients of primary open-angle glaucoma at the outpatient department of ophthalmology of a tertiary care center in Western India: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study

Abstract

Abstract Background: This cross-sectional study, conducted at a tertiary eye care center between January 2016 and January 2018, aimed to assess the awareness and knowledge of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) among patients aged 18 years and above. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study. Diagnosed cases of POAG were included. A well-structured questionnaire, validated by ophthalmologists, was administered to assess awareness and knowledge. Demographic data were collected initially, and subsequent questions determined awareness and knowledge scores. A total score of <50% indicated poor awareness and knowledge, 50%–75% indicated fair, and more than 75% indicated good. Results: Out of 972 participants, 67.6% were males, and 32.4% were females. No significant correlation was found between awareness/knowledge and age or gender (P > 0.05). However, a statistically significant correlation was observed between education status and both awareness and knowledge (P < 0.05). Overall, the majority of patients demonstrated fair awareness (50%–75%) and knowledge of glaucoma. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the awareness and knowledge of POAG among a diverse patient population. The fair overall awareness and knowledge highlight the need for targeted educational interventions, particularly among individuals with lower education levels. The findings contribute to our understanding of glaucoma awareness in clinical settings, emphasizing the importance of tailored education strategies to enhance public health outcomes in glaucoma management.